10 Best Trucking Companies To Work for in Duluth, MN
After evaluating 13 trucking companies in Duluth, MN, based on pay, benefits, training opportunities, and work-life balance, we found that Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. ranks as the top company to work for in Duluth.
Top Trucking Companies in Duluth, MN
Here are our top recommendations for the best trucking companies to work for in Duluth:
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There's a reason we're one of the world's leading authorities on the global freight market. Our expert team has an in-depth understanding of the industry and is up-to-date on employment trends, regulations, and other insights into the trucking workforce.
We conduct thorough research and data analysis to develop our recommendations for the best trucking companies in Duluth. Every Duluth trucking firm is closely scrutinized based on its service range and capabilities. Our team also verifies companies' safety records and regulatory compliance and looks at what real users have to say about their experience.
From there, we narrow our focus to select only those top-performing and highest-rated firms to give you an informed and up-to-date list of the best trucking companies to work for in Duluth.
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc.
5739 Old Hwy 61, Duluth, MN, 55810- Salary range: $55,000 - $70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Tuition reimbursement: true
- Power units: 285
- Drivers: 290
- Revenue: $16,434
- Miles driven: 26,900,000 (2023)
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 593718) is a well-established trucking company located in Duluth, Minnesota. The company offers a wide array of trucking services, having been involved in the industry for a substantial period as indicated by their DOT journey starting 10,752 days ago. They are equipped to transport various types of cargo, including building materials, coal, construction materials, general freight, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, motor vehicles, and paper products. Kivi Bros primarily hires flatbed and dry van drivers, offering opportunities for both regional and over-the-road (OTR) roles.
Kivi Bros Trucking is committed to providing competitive benefits for its drivers, including sign-on bonuses, safety bonuses, direct deposit, and pay advances. Their benefits package also features health and dental insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan through a 401(k). The company supports ongoing training and development along with tuition reimbursement to foster career growth for drivers. Additionally, Kivi Bros offers flexible scheduling and lays emphasis on direct compensation through deadhead detention and layover allowances.
Kivi Bros Trucking holds a respectable presence on employee review platforms with an Indeed rating of 4.0 and a Glassdoor rating of 3.6. Employees appreciate the company for providing job security and advancement opportunities; however, some have commented on potential improvements in work-life balance and better communication of route assignments. Overall, the positive reviews highlight the company's focus on driver support and competitive compensation as integral to employee satisfaction.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- HAZMAT
- Specialized
- Owner/operator
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Health screenings
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Flexible scheduling
- Dedicated routes
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
- Tuition reimbursement
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 29
- Unsafe driving: 1.78
- Driver fitness: 0.12
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.21
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.72
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Lakehead Trucking, Inc.
6035 Lavaque Road, Duluth, MN, 55803- Salary range: $50,000-$70,000 annually
- Routes: interstate
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 28
- Drivers: 33
- Revenue: $36,490
- Miles driven: 1,034,120 (2023)
Lakehead Trucking, Inc. (DOT: 116256) was established in 1950 and is based in Duluth, Minnesota. With a fleet of over 50 trucks and 28 power units, Lakehead Trucking specializes in carrying a range of cargo, including building materials, coal, dry bulk commodities, construction materials, grain, logs, machinery, and metal sheets. The company predominantly hires truck drivers for flatbed and dry van operations, as well as those experienced in handling hazardous materials. Lakehead also recruits regional, local, and OTR drivers, offering opportunities for solo and team driving, along with unique roles such as hot shot and intermodal drivers.
Lakehead Trucking is committed to providing its drivers with a competitive range of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a robust retirement plan with a 401(k) feature. Safety bonuses, sign-on bonuses, pay advances, deadhead/detention and layover compensation are also offered to incentivize excellent performance. The company supports employee well-being through programs like ongoing training and development, guaranteed home time, a comprehensive roadside assistance program, and the flexibility for drivers to take passengers or pets along their routes. Additionally, Lakehead offers direct deposit, per diem payments, and the possibility of participation in an employee stock ownership program.
Employee feedback on Glassdoor and Indeed is overwhelmingly positive, with Lakehead Trucking earning a 5.0 rating on Glassdoor and a 4.5 on Indeed. Employees frequently praise the company for its compensation, benefits, job security, and the strong focus on maintaining a positive work environment. However, some employees have noted that while the company provides valuable benefits, there can be occasional inconsistencies in scheduling and work-life balance. Overall, Lakehead Trucking, Inc. continues to uphold a strong reputation within the trucking industry, as reflected in their positive employee reviews and high ratings on business review platforms.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Regional
- Local
- Dedicated
- Flatbed
- Reefer
- HAZMAT
- Owner/operator
- Intermodal
- LTL
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Health screenings
- 401(k)
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Dedicated routes
- Ongoing training
- Deadhead compensation
- Rider & pet allowances
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 3
- Unsafe driving: 0.64
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.13
- Vehicle maintenance: 11.84
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Halvor Lines, Inc.
217 Grand Avenue, Superior, WI, 54880- Routes: interstate
- Paid CDL training: true
- Ongoing training: Paid CDL training
- Power units: 730
- Drivers: 735
- Revenue: $561,000
- Miles driven: 71,100,000 (2024)
Halvor Lines, Inc. (DOT: 75250) was established in 2016 and is based in Superior, Wisconsin. With a fleet size of 1,460 and a total of 730 trucks, Halvor Lines is a well-established carrier in the trucking industry. The company specializes in hauling beverages, building materials, chemicals, construction materials, fresh produce, general freight, logs, poles, beams, lumber, machinery large objects, meat, metal sheets, coils, rolls, motor vehicles, paper products, and refrigerated foods. The company primarily operates interstate, and while it provides opportunities for regional drivers and intermodal drivers, it does not offer team driving roles or hire specialized drivers such as hazmat or heavy haul drivers.
Halvor Lines provides a competitive benefits package for its employees, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance, along with paid time off. Drivers looking to start their careers are supported with paid CDL training and a new driver program. The company also offers a truck lease purchase program and ensures guaranteed home time for its drivers, although rider or pet policies are not permitted. Flexible scheduling and ongoing training and development programs are also part of their employment benefits.
On Indeed, Halvor Lines has garnered a rating score of 3.6. Employees often praise the company for its supportive training environment and the security of employment. However, some feedback indicates concerns over work-life balance despite the guaranteed home time, and organizational aspects related to route assignments could be improved. These positives and negatives provide potential employees with a comprehensive view of the company's strengths and areas for development.
Driver Options
- Regional
- Intermodal
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- PTO
- Guaranteed home time
- Flexible scheduling
- Truck lease-to-purchase program
- Paid CDL training
- Ongoing training
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 56
- Unsafe driving: 1.2
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.06
- Vehicle maintenance: 2.3
- Controlled substances: 0.01
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
North Shore Track Services, Inc.
710 South 59th Ave W, Duluth, MN, 55807- Salary range: $60,000-$70,000
- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 15
- Drivers: 60
- Revenue: $1,234,000
- Miles driven: 177,678 (2023)
- Glassdoor:
- Indeed:
North Shore Track Services, Inc. (DOT: 980294) operates as a carrier primarily out of Duluth, Minnesota. Although the exact founding date is not specified, the company remains active in the industry. North Shore Track Services, Inc. specializes in transporting construction materials, general freight, and large machinery using both dry vans and flatbeds. The company's operations encompass an interstate reach, and they primarily recruit over-the-road (OTR) and local drivers.
The company is committed to enriching its employees' professional experience by providing competitive benefits. These benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, paid time off, and safety bonuses. Although they do not offer programs like employee stock ownership or a 401(k) retirement plan, North Shore Track Services, Inc. shows appreciation for their drivers with sign-on bonuses and comprehensive insurance coverage. While home time is a key preference for many drivers, the company does not explicitly guarantee it, which might be a consideration for future recruits.
Employee reviews on Indeed give the company a rating of 4.2, while Glassdoor ratings are at 4.0, reflecting generally positive sentiments regarding compensation, benefits, and job security. Employees appreciate the robust benefits package and safety bonuses. However, feedback often points to a lack of work-life balance and limited flexible scheduling as areas for improvement. Overall, North Shore Track Services, Inc. seems to foster a supportive workplace but could enhance employee satisfaction by addressing scheduling concerns.
Driver Options
- OTR
- Local
- Flatbed
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision coverage
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- PTO
- Sign-on bonus
- Safety bonus
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 2.86
- Driver fitness: 0.22
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.31
- Vehicle maintenance: 7.69
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Aj's Lawncare & Landscaping
6386 Hwy 2, Duluth, MN, 55810- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 19
- Drivers: 11
- Miles driven: 86,000 (2022)
Aj's Lawncare & Landscaping (DOT: 1295961) is a reputable trucking company headquartered in Duluth, Minnesota. While the exact founding date is not specified, the company is established and actively operates in the interstate cargo transportation industry. Aj's specializes in carrying general freight, construction materials, and large machinery objects, serving a broad range of customers and needs. The company does not currently offer specific services such as team driving opportunities, flatbed or refrigerated transport, but focuses primarily on select cargo types.
Despite the lack of certain driver benefits like health insurance, sign-on bonuses, or retirement plans, Aj's Lawncare & Landscaping maintains a fleet size of 19 trucks and engages 11 drivers. The company operates with a lean team and a medium fleet size ranging from 11 to 25 vehicles, having dedicated itself to efficiency and specialization in its cargo services. However, details related to specific driver benefits, such as paid time off or flexible scheduling, are not provided in the available data.
As of now, Aj's Lawncare & Landscaping does not have ratings on Glassdoor or Indeed, so employee feedback is not publicly documented in terms of satisfaction with compensation, work-life balance, or job security. Without current reviews, potential drivers and employees should contact the company directly for more information on job opportunities and workplace culture. Despite the lack of formal reviews, Aj's Lawncare & Landscaping remains an active participant in the trucking industry, continuing to provide specialized cargo services within the Midwest region.
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 1.5
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
United Truck Body Co, Inc.
5219 Miller Trunk Highway, Duluth, MN, 55811- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 5
- Drivers: 5
- Revenue: $41,844,000
- Miles driven: 81,020 (2024)
United Truck Body Co, Inc. (DOT: 235685) operates out of Duluth, Minnesota. The company carries a wide range of cargo, including agricultural and farm supplies, building materials, grain feed hay, intermodal containers, machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, and rolls, and other general freight. With a fleet size of 10 vehicles, United Truck Body Co, Inc. conducts its operations primarily in an interstate capacity with 5 licensed drivers.
Despite being a relatively small company, the fleet is backed by a satisfactory safety rating, which suggests a strong emphasis on operational safety. However, there is no detailed information available on specific driver benefits, health insurance, or bonus structures such as sign-on bonuses or referral bonuses.
The employment feedback on platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed is not available for United Truck Body Co, Inc., making it challenging to gauge employee sentiment on work-life balance, compensation, job security, and culture. The company's specific employee programs and benefits, like health insurance or paid time off, remain unmentioned, but their solid performance metrics and operational safety may appeal to potential drivers looking for a stable work environment.
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
Northland Constructors Of Duluth, Inc.
4843 Rice Lake Road, Duluth, MN, 55803- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 57
- Trailers: 50
- Drivers: 35
- Revenue: $57,530,000
- Miles driven: 750,000 (2024)
Northland Constructors Of Duluth, Inc. (USDOT: 526781) was founded in 1970 and is based in Duluth, Minnesota. The company specializes in hauling construction materials, liquids/gases, machinery large objects, and other types of cargo. With a total fleet size of 164 power units and 50 trailers, it operates as a carrier with an active U.S. DOT status. Northland Constructors Of Duluth, Inc. mainly hires drivers for property transport, supporting both interstate and intrastate operations with a total of 35 drivers on staff.
Though specific driver benefits are not detailed in the data provided, Northland Constructors Of Duluth, Inc. has maintained a satisfactory safety rating. It also indicates that there were no crash fatalities, injuries, or tow-aways reported recently. The trucking company strives to maintain high standards in the industry, ensuring a focus on safety compliance.
Unfortunately, the company's reputation on popular job review sites, such as Glassdoor and Indeed, is not available from the current data. Similarly, employee experiences and feedback regarding working conditions, salary, and expectations within Northland Constructors Of Duluth, Inc. are not explicitly mentioned. However, with over 50 years in business and a significant fleet, it indicates stability and experience within the trucking industry.
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 0
Voyageur Bus Company, Inc.
3941 East Calvary Road, Duluth, MN, 55803- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 120
- Drivers: 110
- Revenue: $4,774,000
- Miles driven: 2,300,000 (2024)
Voyageur Bus Company, Inc. (DOT: 859547) was founded in 1971 and is located in Duluth, Minnesota. The company primarily operates passenger transportation services given their fleet and service focus. Voyageur does not engage in traditional freight hauling like many trucking companies but instead specializes in transporting passengers across various routes.
Despite not offering common trucking industry perks such as sign-on bonuses, health insurance, or team driving opportunities, Voyageur Bus Company maintains a satisfactory safety rating. Their operations consist of 120 power units with a total every-year driving mileage spanning over 2,300,000 miles. The company employs 110 drivers focused on interstate operations, reflecting its comprehensive coverage and established presence in passenger transport.
Unfortunately, detailed employee reviews and ratings on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed are not available for Voyageur Bus Company. This absence of online feedback makes it challenging to gauge employee sentiment. The firm could potentially enhance its attractiveness to potential drivers by offering additional benefits, such as paid time off or sign-on incentives, to bolster its employee satisfaction and retention.
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 4
- Unsafe driving: 0.0
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.14
- Vehicle maintenance: 0.38
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
ELM Lawn Dairy, Inc.
240 Riverwood Dr, Duluth, MN, 55810- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 9
- Drivers: 9
- Miles driven: 488,130 (2024)
ELM Lawn Dairy, Inc. (DOT: 1084037) has been a part of the trucking industry for quite some time, operating out of Duluth, Minnesota. This company specializes in transporting a mix of cargo types, including beverages, general freight, and refrigerated foods, utilizing its fleet of nine trucks. With a license to operate interstate, ELM Lawn Dairy prioritizes the safe and efficient delivery of goods across state lines. Although the company hires a modest number of drivers, it remains focused on providing reliable service within its niche market.
While ELM Lawn Dairy, Inc. does not offer lavish benefits or specialized services like sign-on bonuses or paid time off, they do provide health insurance to their drivers, which showcases a commitment to basic health and wellness. The company does not offer options like team driving, hazmat transportation, or specialized fleet vehicles, instead choosing to streamline their operations within their core service areas. Given their specialization in refrigerated foods, ELM Lawn Dairy values the expertise of reefer drivers who can ensure the sensitive cargo is delivered in optimal conditions.
Currently, ELM Lawn Dairy, Inc. does not boast ratings on Glassdoor or Indeed, leaving room for potential opportunities in enhancing their employer branding. As such, employee feedback is not readily available to gauge detailed opinions on work-life balance, management, or advancement opportunities. This opens the door for the company to potentially improve engagement and communication with their workforce, enhancing retention and satisfaction in the future.
Driver Options
- Reefer
Benefits
- Health insurance
Safety
- Crashes: 0
- Unsafe driving: 0.41
- Driver fitness: 0.0
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.0
- Vehicle maintenance: 8.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
United Piping, Inc.
4510 Airport Rd, Duluth, MN, 55811- Routes: interstate
- Power units: 40
- Drivers: 41
- Revenue: $7,288,000
- Miles driven: 735,933 (2024)
United Piping, Inc. (DOT: 676883) is located in Duluth, Minnesota. The company primarily operates in the construction industry, specializing in carrying construction materials, logs, poles, beams, and lumber, among other types of cargo. In addition to these, United Piping, Inc. also transports machinery, large objects, metal sheets, coils, rolls, motor vehicles, and oilfield equipment. They are known for utilizing flatbed trucks, although specific logistics such as team driving opportunities or specialized driver roles are not their focus.
Despite lacking extensive driver benefits like health insurance or paid time off, United Piping, Inc. has maintained an active presence in the trucking industry with a total fleet size of 40 trucks. While they do not currently offer perks such as safety bonuses, flexible scheduling, or a truck lease purchase program, they adhere to satisfactory safety ratings. The company prioritizes maintaining adequate driver fitness and vehicle maintenance standards to ensure efficient operations.
There are no current employee ratings on platforms like Glassdoor or Indeed, suggesting limited feedback from existing or former employees. However, as the company continues to evolve, it holds potential for future improvements in areas such as employee benefits and workplace satisfaction. Overall, United Piping, Inc. seems to focus its efforts on maintaining a steady operation in the construction cargo sector without offering many additional services or benefits for drivers.
Safety
CSA safety score: Satisfactory
- Crashes: 2
- Unsafe driving: 0.67
- Driver fitness: 0.09
- Hours-of-service compliance: 0.03
- Vehicle maintenance: 3.0
- Controlled substances: 0.0
- Hazardous materials violations: 0
What To Look for in Duluth Trucking Companies
A fulfilling and prosperous career in trucking should start with selecting the best employer in Duluth, MN. When comparing companies, take these essential factors into account:
- Pay range & career growth: Beyond starting pay, think about how you can progress. Choose Duluth trucking companies that provide regular training, salary increases linked to new skills, and well-defined promotion opportunities with performance bonuses.
- Benefits: Comprehensive perks can make a big difference. Look for employers that offer more than healthcare and retirement — like stock ownership programs, deadhead compensation, or lease-to-own plans, which are a sign of long-term investment in employees.
- Culture: Seek out Duluth trucking companies that value personal time and well-being, with benefits such as rider and pet policies or consistent weekends off.
- Employee feedback: Read reviews from current and former staff to find companies recognized for positive work environments and strong employee relationships.
Types of Driving Jobs Available
Trucking companies in Duluth have a range of driver positions available, designed to fit different levels of experience and individual preferences:
- Long-haul: A fit for drivers who enjoy extended road time and seeing new parts of the country on longer routes.
- Regional: Allows drivers to work routes within Minnesota and nearby states, offering more home time compared to long-haul work.
- Local: Keeps drivers on familiar daily routes in Duluth and surrounding towns.
- Specialized: Focuses on hauling specific freight types such as tanker loads, refrigerated products, or dry goods in Duluth.
How To Choose the Right Company for Your Career Goals
When choosing the best trucking company in Duluth for your career, make sure to:
- Make a list of what matters most. Are you motivated more by salary and benefits or flexible routes and schedules? Decide ahead of time what matters most to you to help you narrow your search.
- Look at local companies. Check the trucking companies in Duluth, Minnesota, to see how they stack up in terms of pay, benefits, and industry reputation.
- Get input from drivers. Ask local drivers about their experiences with different companies in Duluth and check online employment sites like Glassdoor and Indeed for anonymous reviews.
- Think about your career goals. If you are more interested in getting your foot in the door, paid CDL training and ongoing education may be key to choosing a company to work for in Duluth. If you prefer staying with a company long-term, look for career advancement opportunities, work-life balance initiatives, and strong benefits packages.
How To Apply
Looking to launch your trucking career in Duluth? Follow these steps to apply with the best companies:
- Update your resume. Showcase your driving background, relevant licenses, and any specialized training that will stand out to local employers.
- Research companies. Check their websites to review open positions and get a feel for the workplace culture in Duluth.
- Submit your application. Send in your application through the employer’s site or trusted job platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor.
- Follow up. Reach out after applying to express your enthusiasm and learn more about the hiring timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions truck drivers have when considering trucking companies in Duluth:
Is a truck driving career worth it in Duluth?
A truck driving career in Duluth can be highly rewarding, especially with the growing demand for freight movers in the area. Drivers can earn competitive wages, enjoy job security, and find plenty of opportunities for career growth in the local trucking industry.
Which company in Duluth offers the best benefits for long-haul drivers?
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. is known for excellent long-haul benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses.
What type of driving jobs are most available in Duluth?
Most trucking companies in Duluth are hiring for regional and local driving positions, with some also offering specialized roles for more experienced drivers.
What is the best trucking company for new drivers in Duluth?
Kivi Bros Trucking, Inc. is known for its exceptional paid CDL training and offers strong career support for new drivers starting out in Duluth.